The Ukrainian Raybird reconnaissance UAV from Skyeton, part of NAUDI, was used during the recent Iron Titan 2025 exercises in the UK. During these exercises, the drone proved its effectiveness.
The Raybird was reportedly launched in under 25 minutes, operated 10 km away, detected multiple targets, and remained undetected. This was reported by European Security & Defense.
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From Defense Express we would like to add that this event is important because Raybird is planned to be manufactured in the UK at a new joint Ukrainian-British venture, Skyeton Prevail Solutions (SPS). The recent tests during training exercises mark an important step toward supplying these drones to the British Army.
The British view the Ukrainian Raybird as a replacement for their Watchkeeper drone, which was a costly failure and is soon to be decommissioned.
During the training, not all of Raybird's capabilities were demonstrated. At just 23 kg, the Raybird is similar in size to small UAVs, yet in some respects outperforms UAVs weighing up to 600 kg.
It can cover distances of up to 2,500 km, has a maximum speed of 140 km/h, can be controlled from a distance of 220 km, as well as can stay in the air for up to 28 hours. Proven in Ukraine, these drones have flown 350,000+ hours, completed 7,000 missions, with losses totaling less than 10%.
It has also shown remarkable resilience, surviving a strike from the Osa SAM system. For reconnaissance, the Raybird carries optical sights, aerial cameras, SAR equipment, and a radio-frequency locator capable of detecting russian radars.
Raybird can operate under active electronic warfare and without GPS. If communication with the operator is lost, it follows its pre-set route and returns.
The Raybird is launched from a mechanical catapult and returns via parachute, landing on its inflatable landing cushion to prevent damage.
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